Musical instrument lessons for people over 60

Applicants must be resident of Suginami Ward and be 60 years of age or older.

In September 2002, as part of an exchange program with Suginami Ward, with which the Japan Philharmonic has a friendly partnership, the "Instrumental Music Classes for People Over 60" was launched for residents of the ward. This event has been held for many years as a Japan Philharmonic sponsored event, aiming to further the exchange between the Japan Philharmonic and Suginami residents, as well as to encourage people over 60 who have more free time in their lives to take on new challenges and live vibrant lives.

Currently, the violin and cello classes are held at Sesion Suginami (designated manager: Tokyu Community, Tokyu Bunkamura, Kyowa Sangyo Joint Venture) in collaboration with the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, and the clarinet classes are held at Nishiogi Community Center (designated manager: Tokyu Community) in collaboration with the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra.

This is the only musical instrument class for adults in Japan where professional orchestra musicians and former musicians serve as instructors.

In 2025, three classes will be offered: violin, cello, and clarinet. Members and alumni of the Japan Philharmonic will provide instruction throughout the year. Students range from those picking up an instrument for the first time to those with some playing experience in their younger years. Upon completion, a graduation recital will be held in the hall to showcase the results of their practice. Students have been able to become familiar with music with friends who share the same hobby, and have received positive feedback, with some saying, "Having a new goal has given my life more meaning."

A year of musical instrument lessons　

~The joy of playing an instrument: The next step is a life with music~

Opening ceremony

The instrument lesson begins with an opening ceremony. Beginners are also welcome to participate in the lesson, so at the beginning you will speak directly with the instructor about the lesson process and any questions you may have about your instrument. Japan Philharmonic office staff and facility staff will support you with your lessons.

Lesson start

Lessons are held 18 times a year, including opening days (2024 results). Each lesson is approximately 45 minutes long, and students practice twice a month until the recital. Lessons are held in groups divided by level, and students learn to improve through friendly competition, while naturally communicating through music. Tea parties after lessons have become a regular tradition, further deepening friendships, and some students report that this has added meaning to their lives.

The instructors are mainly current members of the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, with alumni also teaching. The Japan Philharmonic Orchestra holds approximately 150 concerts a year, so the number of lessons per month may vary, but please rest assured that the overall number of lessons is adjusted throughout the year.

What kind of people participate in the class?

"I want to try playing an instrument that I've always wanted to play"

"I learned it as a child, but that was it. Now that I'm retired, I want to take this opportunity to try again."

"I love music and would like to start playing an instrument with someone."

"Now that I've finished caring for my family, I want to take some time for myself."

"I got sick and had to go through rehabilitation for a while, but I'd like to start playing my instrument again soon," etc.

Everyone has a different reason for participating.

Presentation

At the end of the year, a recital is held as a culmination of the program (participation is optional). Instructors select pieces based on each student's progress, and they perform in ensembles or solos. This is a special, one-off performance that students can experience together with their peers who have walked the path of mastering their instruments together. The fulfilled smiles of students who have successfully completed their performance are the greatest gift for the instructors.

After the performance, the instructor handed each participant a certificate of completion. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, participants would congratulate each other on their efforts at a thank-you party, and recharge their energy for the next stage.

Through these musical instrument classes, we respond to the seniors' desire to learn and their spirit of inquiry, and by sharing the joy of music, we contribute to creating a sense of purpose in life and stimulating communication among them.

Lecturers

Violin Class

Cello Class

Clarinet Class